Trying new things…
some by choice and others not really. I know, we are late with this one. Let me start off by saying that no matter if the newsletter and updates come late, the packages always go out on time. When we started this, I will be the first to admit that we had a goal with no idea on how to get there. We are learning and accomplishing a lot at the same time. We did encounter several delays with other aspects this month as well as life getting in the way. Regardless, our monthly spotlight, Kehlani Hoke, received her package by the middle of the month. We had heard she likes the movie Frozen so we went wild getting several items based on that.
While doing the first care package, we noted some difficulties that we would definitely face as we continued. With that came a bit of change. We are now acquiring items on a quarterly basis. This switch took a little bit of adjustment, but it allowed us to catch up with October and finish November well before it needs to be sent out. That package will be sent next week so hopefully, it will arrive at the beginning of November. This will give us a chance to also report sooner on their reception. We are also only waiting to receive two items for December. We will soon be starting on the first quarter of next year as it will be here before you know it, especially considering the holiday season.
What’s in each box? Every family gets a questionnaire that helps us pick items. This makes every box unique. We do not take direct requests as we cannot promise anything, but we do our best to fulfill any direct present need. We also try to put an emphasis on items that can be cleaned, washed, reused, and will last. A few items may be expensive, but we would rather something give a child joy for possibly years to come than last through the afternoon. Families don’t have the time to go looking for specific items. It can be very hard to find niche items. The focus for these families needs to be on making it through this journey.
You may also notice that the discussion is missing this month. We wanted to do this one justice as it is a very important topic so instead of just half putting something up, it will be in the November update. December will be about the holidays and early next year we will have one on how to get involved in raising awareness. We have also started our first raffle. This one is a beautiful handmade glass pumpkin from StarWorks in Star, NC. The link to purchase tickets can be found here.
In November, we will do another shirt design. This one will only be a couple of colors to help keep costs down. It will also feature some hoodies and long sleeved options since it is getting cold.
As for Wylie, she has pretty much been discharged from most services. She goes back for her next scans in about five weeks. She is also now back under the direct care of her pediatrician. Although the fight never ends, we are all slowly returning to some normalcy.